How much does a Payroll Manager make?
A Payroll Manager plays a key role in ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. This role often comes with a rewarding salary. On average, a Payroll Manager earns about $100,498 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company.
Payroll Managers with more experience or those in larger companies often earn more. For example, those in the top 10% of earners can make over $186,000 annually. The salary can also differ by region, with some areas offering higher wages due to the cost of living. Understanding these factors can help job seekers make informed decisions about their career path.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Manager?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $122,901
In San Jose, managing payroll involves working with tech companies like Intel and Cisco. The area offers a dynamic environment with many opportunities for career growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $122,272
San Francisco's payroll managers often work with major tech firms such as Google and Salesforce. The city offers a vibrant job market with competitive salaries.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $121,949
Seattle's payroll managers benefit from working with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city provides a strong economy and a high quality of life.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $118,450
In Baltimore, payroll managers often work with healthcare and government entities. The city offers a mix of traditional industries and growing tech sectors.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $117,701
Dallas offers a diverse job market with companies like AT&T and ExxonMobil. Payroll managers here enjoy a mix of industries and a growing economy.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $114,299
In Washington, DC, payroll managers often work with government agencies and non-profits. The city offers a unique blend of political and corporate opportunities.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $113,981
Detroit's payroll managers work with automotive giants like Ford and General Motors. The city is seeing a resurgence with new opportunities in tech and innovation.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $113,917
Atlanta offers a thriving job market with companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines. Payroll managers here enjoy a diverse economy and a growing tech scene.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $110,907
In Tampa, payroll managers often work with companies in the finance and healthcare sectors. The city offers a warm climate and a growing job market.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $107,546
Chicago's payroll managers work with major corporations like Boeing and McDonald's. The city offers a strong economy and a rich cultural scene.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Manager can work for?

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Deloitte
Average Salary: $185,986
Deloitte offers competitive salaries for Payroll Managers. They provide opportunities in various locations, including major cities across the U.S. Deloitte's Payroll Managers handle payroll processing and ensure compliance with tax laws.
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PwC
Average Salary: $163,797
PwC is known for its top-tier compensation for Payroll Managers. They operate in many global locations. At PwC, Payroll Managers manage payroll systems and support financial operations.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $162,334
KPMG offers attractive salaries for Payroll Managers. They have offices worldwide. KPMG's Payroll Managers ensure accurate payroll processing and compliance with regulations.
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Ford Agency
Average Salary: $125,000
Ford Agency provides a good salary for Payroll Managers. They operate in key locations across the U.S. Ford Agency's Payroll Managers handle payroll processing and employee benefits.
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FedEx
Average Salary: $107,596
FedEx offers competitive pay for Payroll Managers. They have locations nationwide. FedEx's Payroll Managers manage payroll systems and ensure timely payments.
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Robert Half
Average Salary: $102,463
Robert Half provides a solid salary for Payroll Managers. They operate in many cities. Robert Half's Payroll Managers handle payroll processing and support HR functions.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $94,339
Vaco offers a good salary for Payroll Managers. They work in various locations. Vaco's Payroll Managers manage payroll systems and ensure compliance with tax laws.
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Creative Financial Staffing
Average Salary: $92,661
Creative Financial Staffing provides a decent salary for Payroll Managers. They operate in many areas. Their Payroll Managers handle payroll processing and support financial operations.
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R Wireless Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer
Average Salary: $71,769
R Wireless Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer offers a competitive salary for Payroll Managers. They have locations across the U.S. Their Payroll Managers manage payroll systems and ensure compliance.
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Applebee's
Average Salary: $58,000
Applebee's offers a good salary for Payroll Managers. They have locations nationwide. Applebee's Payroll Managers handle payroll processing and support HR functions.
How to earn more as a Payroll Manager?
A Payroll Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. This responsibility can lead to higher earning potential through various avenues. One key factor is gaining experience. As a Payroll Manager gains more experience, they often become more valuable to employers. This experience can lead to higher salary offers and better job opportunities.
Another factor is obtaining relevant certifications. Certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or the Certified Payroll Administrator (CPA) can enhance a Payroll Manager's credentials. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the profession and can lead to higher pay. Employers often value these credentials, making it easier to negotiate a higher salary. Additionally, staying updated with the latest payroll laws and regulations can also improve job performance and earning potential.
Networking and professional development can also play a significant role. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with other Payroll Managers can open doors to new opportunities. These connections can lead to job offers with better compensation packages. Furthermore, participating in webinars and workshops can help a Payroll Manager stay current with industry trends, making them more marketable and valuable to potential employers.
Specializing in certain areas can also increase earning potential. For example, a Payroll Manager who specializes in international payroll can command higher salaries. This specialization requires additional knowledge and skills, which employers are willing to pay a premium for. Another area of specialization is technology, such as expertise in payroll software and systems. This technical skill can make a Payroll Manager more efficient and valuable to an organization.
Finally, seeking promotions and career advancements can lead to higher earnings. A Payroll Manager who takes on more responsibilities and demonstrates leadership skills may be eligible for higher-paying positions. This could involve moving into a senior payroll manager role or even a payroll director position. These higher-level roles often come with significant salary increases and additional benefits.



